Photo: Yesterdays Antique Motorcycles · CC BY-SA 4.0
Ducati 900 Super Sport
85/100 Overall
70 On the road100 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Ducati 900 Super Sport vs Suzuki AP50
Ducati 900 Super Sport scores 85/100 overall against Suzuki AP50 on 72/100. On the road: 70–53. As classics: 100–90. Overall result: Ducati 900 Super Sport.
Photo: Morebikes · Public domain
Suzuki AP50
72/100 Overall
53 On the road90 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Ducati 900SS | Suzuki AP50 | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 8 | 3 | Ducati 900SS |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 10 | 7 | Ducati 900SS |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 9 | 4 | Ducati 900SS |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 6 | 7 | Suzuki AP50 |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 5 | 7 | Suzuki AP50 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 4 | 4 | Level |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 10 | 9 | Ducati 900SS |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 10 | 9 | Ducati 900SS |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 10 | 9 | Ducati 900SS |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 10 | 9 | Ducati 900SS |
Choose the Ducati 900SS if…
you prioritise focused sporting handling, Italian design and an exceptionally involving bevel-Ducati experience.
Choose the Suzuki AP50 if…
you want one of the FS1-E's great British rivals, with proper motorcycle looks and strong 1970s learner-bike nostalgia.
Background
History
Ducati 900SS
The Ducati 900 Super Sport was produced from 1975–1982 and used a 864cc air-cooled bevel-drive 90-degree V-twin. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, historic importance, handling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Suzuki AP50
The Suzuki AP50 was produced from 1975–1977 and used a 49cc air-cooled two-stroke single. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for styling, historic importance, collector appeal. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Ducati 900SS
- Its production span in this library runs from 1975 to 1982.
- The recorded engine description is: 864cc air-cooled bevel-drive 90-degree V-twin.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, historic importance, handling.
Suzuki AP50
- Its production span in this library runs from 1975 to 1977.
- The recorded engine description is: 49cc air-cooled two-stroke single.
- Its strongest comparison scores are styling, historic importance, collector appeal.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Ducati 900SS
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Ducati 900 Super Sport. Its library score for styling is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Suzuki AP50
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Suzuki AP50. Its library score for styling is 9/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Ducati 900SS
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check primary drive, charging system, engine mounts and evidence of non-standard modifications.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Suzuki AP50
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check the oil-injection or premix arrangement, crank seals and exhaust condition carefully.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Ducati 900SS
Rivals to the Suzuki AP50
Final result
The verdict
Ducati 900 Super Sport wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Ducati 900 Super Sport wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Ducati 900 Super Sport takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.